Jump to content

63 Riviera ignition switch size


Guest Pearville

Recommended Posts

Guest Pearville

My 63 Riv came without a key but the ignition was unlocked so I could still start it.

I ordered one from Keybits lock and key online, which was listed for 63-65 Riviera.

The chrome bezel on the new lock insert is smaller than the one in the car. Any body had this problem before? Were there two sizes of ignition switches? The new one measures 1 inch diameter. The one in the car is at least 1-1/4 in.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Your `63 was built with a one key system. If you check the door lock cylinders, trunk lock cylinder and/or the glovebox cylinder you will find a 4 digit code stamped into the cylinders. The 4 digit code translates into a 6 digit combination from which your key can be cut (assuming no one has swapped out the locks).

A couple of years ago I set out to sort through all the key issues on my cars. I was floored by what the locksmith quoted me for just one car and it required me to remove the locks from the car... so I stuck my head in a few books and learned how to do it myself....cut keys, key lock cylinders, etc.. I picked up a like new Curtis key clipper on Ebay and now do all my locksmithing myself. It`s fun and interesting, I learned ALOT!

Tom Mooney

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest Pearville
Your `63 was built with a one key system. If you check the door lock cylinders, trunk lock cylinder and/or the glovebox cylinder you will find a 4 digit code stamped into the cylinders. The 4 digit code translates into a 6 digit combination from which your key can be cut (assuming no one has swapped out the locks).

A couple of years ago I set out to sort through all the key issues on my cars. I was floored by what the locksmith quoted me for just one car and it required me to remove the locks from the car... so I stuck my head in a few books and learned how to do it myself....cut keys, key lock cylinders, etc.. I picked up a like new Curtis key clipper on Ebay and now do all my locksmithing myself. It`s fun and interesting, I learned ALOT!

Tom Mooney

Thanks Tom, I had to replace the trunk lock because it was missing. I do have door locks and a glove box lock. I will check for the numbers you mentioned and see if I can get a key made. Thank you very much for the info. It is so nice to have you guys to help.

Mike Roberson

Link to comment
Share on other sites

You might kill two birds with one stone. Take off the door panel to find the lock number and while you're at it, clean and re-lube the window tracks. Pull the trunk cylinder and take it with you to the locksmith and have them put new tumblers in it to match the correct key so that you'll be back to square one with all of the locks.

IF, and that's a big IF, you're lucky enough to have the original owners manual with the car, the four digit key code will be on one of the last pages with all the other pertinent data about the car.

Ed

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest Pearville

No such luck on the owner's manual. Good advice on the doors the windows work but do need lube. Not as easy to get to the rear ones I guess, they are really slow. So if I get a key made for the door it will work in the ignition (if its stock of course). I'll give it a try as soon as I get it back from the mechanic shop. Thanks again.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hey Pearville! Some time ago I was complaining about the slow windows on my 65 and got a great bit of advice from one of the old-timers here..... he told me to roll up the windows and, using the little red tube, empty an entire can of WD40 into each door, finding holes wherever you can and directing spray inside in all directions. I did this( and split a can between the rear window wells) several years ago, and my windows have glided up & down like new ever since! While it is a little like carpet-bombing, it did the trick, saved me the hassle of removing door skins & interior panels, and I'll wager I don't have rust problems in those areas for awhile.( Of course, taking stuff apart & putting it back together again can be fun if you have the time.) The only downside was WD smell for a few days, but I use that for air freshener anyhow ! Later, Drew

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest Pearville
Hey Pearville! Some time ago I was complaining about the slow windows on my 65 and got a great bit of advice from one of the old-timers here..... he told me to roll up the windows and, using the little red tube, empty an entire can of WD40 into each door, finding holes wherever you can and directing spray inside in all directions. I did this( and split a can between the rear window wells) several years ago, and my windows have glided up & down like new ever since! While it is a little like carpet-bombing, it did the trick, saved me the hassle of removing door skins & interior panels, and I'll wager I don't have rust problems in those areas for awhile.( Of course, taking stuff apart & putting it back together again can be fun if you have the time.) The only downside was WD smell for a few days, but I use that for air freshener anyhow ! Later, Drew

Thanks Drew, Actually I did spray some WD through the rubber in the door post, but not near a whole can. I will definitely try some more and see if I can get away with a cheap fix since I am still trying to decide how far to take the car. Thanks for a good tip. Mike

Link to comment
Share on other sites

If you need an ignition switch with a key or any other locks for your Riviera let me know as I have several used locks with keys. I also cut keys for my own locks and can help you cut a key for your ignition switch if you would like. Feel free to call me at 215-767-0845. James

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Guest Pearville
If you need an ignition switch with a key or any other locks for your Riviera let me know as I have several used locks with keys. I also cut keys for my own locks and can help you cut a key for your ignition switch if you would like. Feel free to call me at 215-767-0845. James

Thanks James, I may be calling.

Mike

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...